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Natalie Dykstra in conversation with Washington Post art critic, Sebastian Smee

Cambridge has joined a growing global movement of cities supporting sustainable, plant-based food systems in order to combat climate change and promote public health. The City Council unanimously endorsed the global Plant Based Treaty, following Los Angeles and 64 other cities around the world.

Winter Mix is a new series of free community events designed to foster warmth, joy, and connection during the coldest part of the year. By activating public spaces with light, movement, arts, and cultural programming, Winter Mix aims to reduce winter isolation and cultivate community resilience through shared experiences.

State health officials reported on July 9 that a mosquito sample in Cambridge had tested positive for West Nile virus. The virus is usually transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. The risk of West Nile virus infection in Cambridge remains “low,” according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Low risk means an infection of West Nile virus is unlikely.

Effective December 21, 2021: In response to the spread of the Delta variant and the emerging Omicron variant, the Department of Public Health now advises that all residents, regardless of vaccination status, wear a mask or face covering when indoors (and not in your own home). The DPH particularly urges this recommendation if you have a weakened immune system, or if you are at increased risk for severe disease because of your age or an underlying medical condition, or if someone in your household has a weakened immune system, is at increased risk for severe disease, or is unvaccinated.

The Cambridge Public Health Department’s Health Promotion Mini-Grant Program will award up to $20,000 in total funding to projects from community organizations, schools, businesses, garden and farm programs, and government agencies that serve Cambridge.

The City of Cambridge and Bluebikes offer discounted bike share memberships to income-eligible individuals aged 16+ who participate in qualifying public assistance programs OR who meet income guidelines (up to 400% of the federal poverty line), and who can't access the SNAP self-enrollment process.

Get to know Rob Linke, Operations Manager with the Department of Public Works (DPW). Linke is involved with several important City operations, including working in the planning administration division, helping coordinate special events as the DPW representative on the special events committee, and supporting the City’s outdoor permitting program.

In 2024, the Cambridge Fire Department responded to 16,182 emergency incidents, including 1,148 fires, 7,387 medical emergencies, and 237 elevator rescues. Firefighters played a critical role in major local fires, including a tragic 3-alarm fire in North Cambridge and multiple multi-alarm residential fires throughout the year. Cambridge fire companies also provided mutual aid to neighboring communities 196 times, highlighting their dedication to public safety.

Library trustees are volunteer community representatives, library advocates, and leaders in the establishment of goals and policies for the Cambridge Public Library system. Trustees are a vital link between the library staff and the community and work to ensure the quality of library services, collections, and programs, and to make certain that the library reflects and is relevant to the community.